Sarfraz Ahmed is not taking Bangladesh lightly

On Sunday (May 27), Pakistan will take on Bangladesh in a warm-up match ahead of ICC Champions Trophy 2017. In the ICC ODI Team Rankings, Bangladesh are placed over Pakistan. They defeated New Zealand to grab the 6th position on the points table. After their surprising victory against the Kiwis, teams have decided to take Bangladesh into account.

The current bunch of cricketers playing for the Tigers have more surprises in store hopes their captain Mashrafe Mortaza. Captain of Pakistan Sarfraz Ahmed said that it would be a stupid gesture to take Bangladesh lightly after the wounds they have inflicted on New Zealand at the Clontarf Cricket Club Ground in Dublin.

But he also said that both Pakistan and Bangladesh are hungry to get the victory. Mortaza & Co. last played an ODI series against Pakistan way back in April 2015. It was not a joyous campaign for Pakistan as Bangladesh whitewashed them 3-0.

Bangladesh have been on a rampage

Sarfraz Ahmed acknowledged the Tigers for their efforts to improve themselves. “Bangladesh have been on a rampage and playing consistently for last one and a half years or so. Now this is a very good opportunity for both the teams to have some good preparation” said Sarfraz Ahmed while speaking to the press before the match.

He also praised the veteran Bangladeshi opener, Tamim Iqbal.

“They (Bangladesh) have done very good lately. When we play them, we will get to see batsman like Tamim Iqbal. But still, if we could play the semifinals!” said Ahmed.

Bangladesh is placed in Group A alongside mighty Australia, home team England and New Zealand. Pakistan, on the other hand, are placed in a comparatively easier group. In Group B, they will have to face their arch-rivals and defending champions India, ‘Numero Uno’ ODI team South Africa and Sri Lanka.